Ankle Sprains Specialist

What are ankle sprains?

An ankle sprain is an injury that happens when one or more of your ankle ligaments — the fibrous cords that link bones — stretch or tear. 

Most ankle sprains affect the lateral ligaments in your outer ankle, but you can also injure the medial ligaments in your inner ankle. 

Ankle sprains frequently happen while running or during other types of exercise. However, you can also experience this injury in many different situations, for example, when you stumble or step down in the wrong way. 

What symptoms do ankle sprains cause?

Ankle sprain symptoms can range from relatively minor to severe, depending on how much damage occurs. Typical symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness 
• Discomfort
• Discoloration (bruising)
• Difficulty bearing weight 
• Difficulty walking

With a serious sprain (a ligament tear), you may hear a snap or feel a popping sensation at the moment of injury. 

How are ankle sprains diagnosed?

The Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates team performs a complete foot and ankle exam and tests your ankle function to diagnose an ankle sprain.

The team may perform an X-ray in the office to eliminate other injuries, like fractures, as the cause of your pain. In some cases, you may need an ultrasound or MRI imaging so the team can visualize the affected ligament. 

What is the treatment for ankle sprains?

Treatment usually occurs in three phases, including:

Phase one

Phase one treatment involves resting your ankle, wearing a protective bandage, brace, or boot, and using ice or other therapies to minimize swelling and discomfort. 

Phase two

In phase two, you'll start special exercises to improve your ankle strength while restoring its normal movement. 

Phase three

In phase three, the team helps you gradually return to normal activities. You can return to activities that stress the ankle, such as sports like tennis, gymnastics, or basketball, only after you're at full function. 

Almost all ankle sprains improve with nonsurgical care. However, if you have a very severe ankle sprain, like a ligament tear that doesn't improve with any nonsurgical treatments, the team of board-certified podiatric surgeons can perform reconstructive surgery to repair it.

The Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates team can quickly reduce your discomfort and help you return to regular activities, so call the office in your area or schedule an appointment online today.